China Visa-Free Policy Guide (2026 Edition)

I. Bilateral Agreement Visa Exemption

Based on bilateral agreements or protocols signed between China and relevant countries, personnel from certain countries who meet specific conditions may enter China without a visa. (For detailed information, please visit the website of the Department of Consular Affairs of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs: http://cs.mfa.gov.cn).

II. Transit Visa Exemption

1. 24-Hour Transit Visa Exemption

Foreign nationals holding valid international travel documents and confirmed onward tickets (air, sea, or train) to a third country or region may transit through China without a visa, provided their stay does not exceed 24 hours and they remain within the port of entry. Those who need to leave the port area must apply for a temporary entry permit from the port’s exit and entry frontier inspection authority.

2. 240-Hour (10-Day) Transit Visa Exemption

Currently, China has implemented a 240-hour transit visa-free policy for citizens of 55 countries (including the US, Russia, and the UK). Travelers holding valid international travel documents and confirmed onward tickets with fixed dates and seats to a third country or region may enter visa-free through any of the 60 open ports in 24 provinces.

They may stay within the designated areas for up to 10 days for activities such as tourism, business, visits, and family reunions. Activities requiring prior approval, such as work, study, or news reporting, still require an appropriate visa.

The 55 eligible countries include:

  • Europe (40 countries): Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Monaco, Russia, United Kingdom, Ireland, Cyprus, Bulgaria, Romania, Ukraine, Serbia, Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Albania, Belarus, Norway.

  • Americas (6 countries): United States, Canada, Brazil, Mexico, Argentina, Chile.

  • Oceania (2 countries): Australia, New Zealand.

  • Asia (7 countries): South Korea, Japan, Singapore, Brunei, United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Indonesia.

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